Extreme Heat

Always call 911 if you are in immediate danger and need emergency help.

Individuals, communities, and businesses can plan for and
reduce the effects of extreme heat. Keep yourself and your family cool when
the thermometer tops out. Check weather
alerts and warnings from the National Weather Service.

Communities - adopt development strategies to reduce heat islands and coordinate local efforts:

Urban and suburban areas can be "heat islands," a zone 2-10 degrees F warmer than the surrounding rural countryside. Because they are warmer, heat islands use more energy to keep cool, which raises costs and reduces air quality. Communities can invest in long-term strategies such as:

During extreme heat

CALL 911 in case of
heat-related illness - heat stress, heat exhaustion or HEAT STROKE can result
in death.

If you lost power: ALERT: Generator exhaust is toxic. Always put generators outside well away from doors, windows, and vents. Never use a generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, sheds, or similar areas. Carbon monoxide (CO) is deadly, can build up quickly, and linger for hours. More information.

PREVENTION IS THE BEST DEFENSE! Stay out of direct sun and wear sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. Be extra careful about sensitive individuals like children, the elderly, or the sick. Never ever leave anyone or an animal alone in a car, or a pool or other risky location, not even for "just a few minutes."

Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening. Spend time in cool places like a shopping mall, a library, or a theater.

If the power goes out...

Be aware of yours and others' risk for heat stroke or other heat-related health illness. Drink plenty of fluids, wear light clothing, and stay indoors. Move to a lower floor or basement if possible. More help.